Others suggested a war on Iraq was the continuation of a battle against Islam, with many calling on Arab states - such as Kuwait and Turkey - to ban British and American armies.

Mohammad Tameemi, from The University of Reading's Islamic Association, hit-out at what he called "shameless Arab leaders" for allowing the West to launch a war on Iraq.

He added: "The mentality of the cowboy is damaging democracy."

The group Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain, which organised the event, is pushing a claim that Western

colonialism has failed.

Its members want a fresh debate on whether Western "capitalist" civilisation is a credible alternative for mankind.

Abid Mustafa, an Islamic academic, told the crowd Tony Blair had broken international law in launching the offensive.

He suggested the war on terrorism was a crusade on Islam and warned North Korea held a genuine threat to the west.

A statement from the rally leaders said: "The West is now faced with a worldwide Islamic revival, which not only threatens Western interests, but is challenging Western civilisations in every aspect of life."

Many passers-by stopped to listen to the speakers and drivers honked their horns in support of the rally. There was no sign of opposition.